You know that warm and fuzzy feeling you get when purchasing a new Nissan vehicle that's as good for the earth as it is for your drive? Well, in the case of the Nissan LEAF, that feeling is about to get a whole lot fuzzier. That's because, if it's possible, the LEAF just got even greener.

In order to make the revolutionary, highly-popular electric even more earth-friendly, Nissan has deployed a partially solar-powered ship to transport it. Dubbed the "Nichioh Maru," the Nissan auto-hauler is covered in a total of 281 solar panels and saves further energy by using LED lighting. Not only is the ship the first of its kind to use photovoltaic panel-power, it's sturdy and powerful as well. More specifically, up to 1,380 Nissan vehicles can find space on board the sea-bound vessel.

Like the LEAF it carries, the Nichioh Maru saves a serious amount of carbon dioxide emissions. With combined energy saving technology, it achieves about 18-percent lower emissions than others in its class. Now, we know most auto consumers aren't as familiar with seafaring transportation, so we'll put that number into perspective. At a rate of approximately two 1,100-mile trips per week, the eco-friendly Nissan ship will conserve upwards of 1,300 tons of fuel per year.

Whether it's creating fuel-efficient Nissan vehicles or pioneering the cargo ship field, our favorite automaker is always at the forefront of green technology. To find out where Nissan will take its green thumb next, simply stay tuned to our Jenkins Nissan blog. Also, don't forget to stop by 4401 State Road 33N Lakeland, FL 33805 and ask questions any time!